Rhonda Lynn Parker

Rhonda Lynn Parker, a devoted mother, grandmother, and woman of remarkable strength, creativity, and determination, passed away on April 14, 2026, at the age of 75. She was born on November 20, 1950, to her loving parents, Gilbert A. Pangos and Merle Pangos.

Rhonda lived her life with intention, resilience, and heart. As a single mother, she worked tirelessly to provide for her family, ensuring that even during challenging times, her children were surrounded by love, stability, and meaningful experiences. She was fiercely independent, hardworking, and deeply committed to those she loved.

She was known for her strong will and decisive nature. When she set her mind to something, she accomplished it. She advocated for her family, stood firm in her beliefs, and always found a way to make things work.

Rhonda had a deep love for creativity and learning. She enjoyed ceramics, toll painting, quilting, and crocheting, often making baby blankets for her grandchildren. She sewed clothing for herself and her children, passing those skills on while encouraging independence and growth. She had a natural ability to learn new things.

Her home and yard reflected her pride and creativity. She loved gardening, propagating plants, and creating a beautiful outdoor space that she enjoyed sharing with family, friends, and her beloved pets. She was also exceptionally organized, keeping detailed notes and carefully preserving greeting cards, photos, recipes, and mementos - ensuring memories were always kept close.

Rhonda had a deep love for music and the arts. She played the piano, sang, and loved being part of the choir at her church. Music filled her home, from classic country to timeless favorites spanning generations. She also loved dancing, especially square dancing, and participated in multiple dance groups, often making her own dresses for performances.

She lived an active and adventurous life. She enjoyed camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking, golf, pickleball, and scuba diving - earning advanced certifications and organizing trips with family and friends. She also loved bowling and participated in leagues, sharing that passion with her children and grandchildren.

Rhonda had a special gift for creating meaningful traditions. Holidays were always memorable—Christmas filled with handmade decorations, Halloween with pumpkin carving and creative costumes, and Easter with thoughtfully chosen or handmade dresses. She loved baking and taught her children to make cookies and pies from scratch, passing down both skills and traditions.

She had a heart for people and community and loved bringing others together. She worked for the State of Utah in the Department of Highway Safety, where she coordinated public safety

events, banquets, and trainings. After retirement, she continued serving others by cleaning homes and caring for the elderly.

Throughout her life, she found creative ways to support her family, including work in interior decorating and various business ventures. Her children cherish memories of helping with orders and deliveries—turning work into meaningful time together.

Rhonda valued education and lifelong learning. She earned her Associate of Science degree and studied American Sign Language, always striving to grow.

She also had a deep love for animals. She built a grooming business, bred and trained dogs—including Golden Retrievers and Bichon Frises—and participated in dog shows. She volunteered by bringing her dogs to hospitals and care centers, offering comfort and companionship to others.

She found joy in both activity and quiet moments, enjoying puzzles, romance movies, and time at home.

Rhonda cherished time with her friends and family and created lasting memories through travel, including trips to Switzerland, Cabo San Lucas, San Diego, Alaska, Catalina Island, and Arizona.

She will be remembered for her strength, independence, creativity, and unwavering love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the lessons she taught, the traditions she created, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

She is survived by her son, Sterling W. Parker Jr. (Melanie); her daughters, Kaylynne Machan and Cammie Soper; her sister, Brenda Soper (Ryan); nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gilbert A. Pangos and Merle Pangos.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her primary care provider, Josh Halls, as well as the nurses and staff at Crescent Senior Living and Memory Care and Utah Home and Hospice for their compassion, care, and support.

You may visit with the family at a viewing on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 9:00 to 9:45 AM at Memorial Redwood Mortuary, 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah. Funeral services will follow at 10:00 AM. Interment will take place immediately after the services at Memorial Redwood Cemetery, located at the same address.